Granite Countertops, Stone Countertops

Granite is a natural product. There are approximately 400 different Granite colors from which to choose. When considering natural granite for you countertops consider this:

• Granite will not burn

• It is not a high maintenance product. It only requires sealing every 1-5 years, which makes it a stain resistant surface.

• Spots that occur from food and liquid can be removed. There are products on the market specifically to do just that available at stone specialty stores and from any stone professional.

• Available in polished and honed

• Granite does not harbor bacteria; bacteria do not eat stone.

• So what is so special about Granite? The simple answer is every single piece! Whether it is a slab, tiles or any other dimension, you will not find two pieces exactly the same. Because Granite is extracted from the earth in its natural form, each piece represents the earth’s formation at that particular place in the landscape.

• Granite slabs come from blocks that when excavated from the earth are cut into either a 2cm (¾”) or 3cm (1 ¼”) thickness. Since the blocks usually range from 7’ in length to 11’ length, the slabs sizes will range as well. If seams are an issue for you, keep that in mind when you make your slabs selection. DESIGN WORKS fabricators and installers are craftsmen. Often times the seams or joints are so tight they are difficult to notice. Often the movement in the stone overshadows the seam, and often the slabs will be large enough that a seam or joint is not required. Remember not all fabricators are craftsmen.

• The prices are as varied as the color. Availability, color, and country of origin are major factors that affect the price of Granite. Many Granite color are offered at the same price, or sometimes less than manmade products. The natural movement, color, and crystal of Granite are properties that even though attempted, can be unmatched by any man made surface.

• Please remember that because Granite is naturally unique, you should come to our shop and pick out your slab personally. Also, if you are having a hard time finding what you want, please contact us and we can help you find exactly what meets your needs.

MARBLE:
Was once limestone that achieved metamorphosis from intense pressure and high temperatures within the earth. Veined Marbles derive their special characteristics from the variation in color and size of crystals in different areas of the stone. Marble is a warm and soft stone .It is usually used on select areas of counter top and as a whole. Marble is waterproof, heatproof, and very luxurious looking. It does require constant maintenance and should be sealed to prevent staining. Marble’s classic look and characteristic veining is perfect for vanity top, elegant dining tables, offices. Although resistant to heat and water, not all Marble is suitable for a kitchen installation; because of its sensitivity to acids. There are, however, some types of Marble that have the same qualities as granite, making them suitable for use in the kitchens.

ONYX:
Is a highly prized, beautiful translucent stone with pastel colors and exquisite formations. Onyx is a layered calcite stone. One of the most exciting stones on the market today is Onyx. Installation ideas such as back-lit bar tops are stunning, because Onyx is often translucent, back lighting accentuates the color (often multi-colored in layers like agate) and the veining (plentiful, and bold). Installations of Onyx should be focused on low traffic areas. Vanities, tub decks and fireplaces are common installations to “dress-up’ with Onyx. The use of Onyx in the proper setting is the perfect option for an unusual and beautiful stone.

ICESTONE:
Is made from 100% recycled glass diverted from the waste stream and mixed with high performance cement to create a highly durable concrete mix. Icestone surfaces are available in a variety of shades that range from soft, earth-toned neutrals to rich, are ideal for kitchen countertops, back-splashes, bathrooms, tabletops, bar tops, outdoor kitchens. Icestone surfaces are strong, heat-resistant and scratch-resistant. Icestone is great for indoor and outdoor use because it is not made with petrochemicals or resins so it will not fade in direct sunlight. Icestone is fabricated, installed and maintained like granite or marble. Icestone has been a proud member of the USGREEN BUILDING COUNCIL. Every time you choose Icestone, you are doing your part to improve the planet for future generations. To learn more visit the www.icestone.biz

QUARTZ SURFACES:
These products include; Silestone, Caesarstone, and Hanstone, to name a few. Engineered Stone is a resin-based quartz material manufactured to imitate natural stone. Each manufacturer of engineered stone produces their own color pallet of approximately 35 colors. When considering engineered stone for your countertops keep these things in mind:

• Engineered stone is harder than plastic, however it can scratch.

• Seams are more evident than solid surface (if seams are an issue for you).

• It has a stain resistant surface.

• Because it is a resin based material, a hot pot directly from your oven or burners will affect this material. You should let your pan cool for a few minutes before placing on countertop.

• Available in matte and semi-gloss finishes.

• Engineered stone will not harbor bacteria; bacteria do not eat resin.

• To learn more about Silestone visit the www.silestone.com

• To learn more about Caesarstone visit the www.caesarstoneus.com

• To learn more about Hanstone visit the www.hanstone.com